Samsung S730i Ultimate Guide with Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Samsung S730i

The Samsung S730i, released in 2007, represents a classic example of a feature phone from the mid-2000s. This device, while no longer in production, was popular due to its simplicity and essential functionalities that served the basic communication and multimedia needs of users at the time.

Design and Build

The Samsung S730i sports a compact and handy design with dimensions of 100 x 50 x 14.8 mm, making it easily pocketable and light, weighing only 83 grams. The phone features a Mini-SIM slot, which was standard at the time, and its silver color gives it a sleek, professional look. The build quality is robust, suitable for daily use, and designed for durability.

Display Characteristics

The phone is equipped with a 2.0-inch TFT display supporting 256K colors. This display offers a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels, providing a pixel density of approximately 141 ppi. While these specs seem modest by today’s standards, they were adequate for simple tasks and basic multimedia viewing back in the day.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung S730i includes a single 2 MP rear camera complemented by an LED flash, which was a noteworthy feature for capturing photos in low light. The camera can also record videos at 320p resolution. Although it doesn’t support selfie capabilities due to the absence of a front camera, the main camera was sufficient for casual photo capturing during its time.

Performance and Storage

As a feature phone, the Samsung S730i was not equipped with the processing power found in modern smartphones, and it operated on a proprietary operating system known simply as Feature phone OS. The device offers 80MB of internal storage, and it supports a microSD card slot for expandable storage, which was an appreciated feature for storing additional photos, music, and apps.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung S730i is equipped to work with 2G GSM networks (900/1800/1900 bands), and supports both GPRS and EDGE technologies for data transfer. This capability enabled users to manage emails and browse via the i-mode browser. For local data transfer, the device features Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP support and a USB 2.0 interface. However, it does not support Wi-Fi, positioning features like GPS, or FM radio.

Multimedia and Entertainment

This device supports vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic as well as MP3 ringtones. Although it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, it includes a loudspeaker. Gaming is possible with built-in games and the option to download additional Java-based DoJa 2.5 games. These features, though basic, allowed for a bit of entertainment outside calling and texting.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, which can last up to 200 hours on standby and offers up to 6 hours of talk time. This battery specification made the phone reliable for day-to-day usage without the need for frequent recharging, a crucial aspect of early mobile phone design focused on long battery life.

Additional Features

In terms of messaging, the Samsung S730i supports SMS, EMS, MMS, and email, covering a wide range of communication needs. Internet browsing is possible via the i-mode browser, and while the phone does not support sensors, it effectively covers the essentials expected from a feature phone.

Conclusion

The Samsung S730i stands as a reminder of the early mobile phone era, specifically during the transition period between basic mobile phones and the more advanced smartphones we use today. Its practical design, adequate camera, acceptable connectivity options, and reliable battery life made it a sensible choice for users in the late 2000s seeking an affordable and reliable means of communication. While it may not match modern devices in terms of features and power, it played a crucial role in the evolution of mobile technology and continues to be remembered fondly for its simplicity and dependability.